What do I need to know if I am new to
ISO 45001?
The answer depends on how much you know about
ISO management systems. ISO 45001 adopts Annex SL,
thus sharing a high-level structure (HLS), identical core text
and terms and definitions with other recently revised ISO
management system standards such as ISO 9001:2015
(quality management) and ISO 14001:2015 (environmental
management). If you are already acquainted with the common
framework, then much of ISO 45001 will seem familiar to you
and you will just need to fill the “gaps” in your system.
If this is not the case, things could be a little more tricky.
The standard is not easy to apprehend when you read it as
a normal book. You have to realise all the interconnections
between the specific clauses. My best advice would be to
find a good training course to help you unlock the standard’s
full potential. You may also want to consider employing
consultancy services to assist you in the process.
I have an integrated system certified to ISO 9001
and ISO 14001. How can ISO 45001 be used with other
management systems?
ISO’s common framework (the aforementioned HLS) for
management system standards was deliberately developed to
facilitate the integration of new management topics into an
organisation’s existing management systems. For example,
ISO 45001 is based fairly closely on ISO 14001 as we are
aware that many organizations combine their OH&S and
environmental functions internally.
How will ISO 45001 be used?
We predict that most organisations will use ISO 45001
to establish an effective OH&S management system, and
just a few will want the extra recognition that comes with
certification. There is no requirement to certify to an ISO
management system standard. Simply having a formal
management system in place will bring many benefits of its
own through enforcing best practice. Certification is merely an
added endorsement that demonstrates to external parties that
you have achieved full compliance with a specific standard.
The benefits of ISO 45001 are endless when implemented
correctly. While the standard requires that OH&S risks be
addressed and controlled, it also takes a risk-based approach
to the OH&S management system itself, to ensure that it is
effective and that it is being continually improved to meet an
organisation’s ever-changing “context”. Moreover, it ensures
compliance with current legislation worldwide. All these
measures combined can establish an organisation’s reputation
as a “safe place to work”, bringing a host of corollary benefits,
from reducing insurance costs to improving employee
morale – all while continuing to meet your strategic targets.
By Elizabeth Gasiorowski-Denis
Editor-in-Chief of ISOfocus
See more at: www.iso.org
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